5 Questions You Should Ask When Buying Replacement Windows

Many homeowners get new replacement windows for several reasons, such as to enhance your home’s curb appeal, increase your property’s resale value, or improve your household’s energy efficiency. Knowing the right questions to ask your provider when shopping for a window replacement plays a pivotal role in ensuring you tick off every item on your checklist.

To help you get started, we created a list of the top questions every homeowner should be asking, so you don’t have to.

Let’s delve right in!

1. What’s the Best Window Style for My Home?

Getting new replacement windows is both an aesthetic and practical investment. Nowadays, there are countless window styles to choose from, with several customizations of materials, mechanisms, and functional features available. The limitless possibilities can be exciting for many homeowners, but it can also be a bit overwhelming.

Currently, the most popular window styles are:

• Double-hung windows
• Double-hung windows with muntins
• Casement windows
• Slider windows
• Fixed windows
• Bay and bow windows
• Floor-to-ceiling windows
• Awning windows
• Glass block windows

Some other important questions that fall under window styling include:

• How do you choose the right window style to improve your home exterior’s aesthetic appeal, without compromising security?
• What’s the best window style for classic or contemporary homes?
• What’s the best window design if you want to add more natural light to your basement?

A knowledgeable window specialist can walk you through the pros and cons of various window styles and make suggestions and offer customizations best suited for your home’s unique needs.

2. Should I Choose a Pocket or Full-Frame Replacement?

When swapping old windows for new ones it’s important to know whether you need a pocket or a full-frame window replacement.

A pocket replacement or insert window replacement allows you to keep the original frame, trim, siding, and casing. On the other hand, as its name implies, a full-window installation replaces everything, including the frames and sashes.

Both options have their merits, depending on the situation. It’s best to have a professional window technician or installer assess your existing window frames’ condition. An insert window installation is only advisable when the current frames are still in good condition, level, and have the same shape as your new window replacement. However, if you are thinking of switching things up by changing the shape and window size or your old window frames are severely damaged, a full-frame window replacement is the best way to go.

3. Should I Replace All My Windows at the Same Time?

Deciding whether to order new window replacements all at once or per room is on a case by case basis. If you are looking to completely transform your property’s facade, having your window replacements installed in one go can provide instant gratification due to the dramatic changes they provide visually. Exterior windows and doors are one of the house’s main focal points, therefore, it makes sense to get them to match or complement each other design-wise.

In the case that you’re working within a smaller budget, you can also consider getting replacement windows in batches, prioritizing any cracked or outdated ones first.

4. When’s the Best Time to Get a New Window Replacement?

Technically, you can order replacement windows all year-round. However, if you are preparing for the long winter season and want to make your home cozier and more energy-efficient, it may be a wise idea to schedule window replacements during the warmer months. This way, you won’t be affected by cold draughts getting into your home while the replacement windows are being installed. Nevertheless, urgent window replacements are still possible with careful planning and scheduling by your provider.

5. Do I Need Professional Window Installation, Or Can I Pull Off a DIY?

Attempting a do-it-yourself window installation may seem more economical at first glance. But in reality, it can be a costly trial-and-error process that can leave you exhausted and frustrated in the end. If you have the necessary tools and advanced carpentry skills, installing a single replacement window may not be a problem. On the contrary, installing multiple windows on several levels by yourself can be dangerous and might lead to serious injury if not done properly.

One wrong move in installing your replacement windows can negatively affect their energy efficiency performance and overall stability and safety. You may save a few bucks in the meantime, but down the line you may encounter serious problems such as water leaks or draughts because you did not caulk or weatherproof your window replacements properly.

Calling in the pros to install a window replacement is beneficial in that they are trained experts with the tools necessary to get the job done quicker than a DIY project, ensuring no extenuating damages are done to your property, and can work with you to achieve your aesthetic goals.

Your Window Replacement Answers at Burano Doors

At Burano Doors, we always encourage our customers to forgo DIY options and let our professional window installation services handle the grunt work. Our certified team of highly trained and experienced window technicians are armed with the necessary tools and equipment to guarantee your new window replacements’ safety, efficiency, and lifespan.

For more information about our stunning collection of stylish doors and replacement windows, do not hesitate to reach out to us. Our friendly representatives will be more than happy to help you.